For Keeps

I hope everyone is having a great summer! We’re in the middle of a heat wave which us west-coast-wimps don’t handle too well. But you aren’t here to talk about the weather. Moving on!

I don’t know if you have heard about the “For Keeps” campaign founded by Amy Gibson, a talented quilt designer, author and all-round wonderful person. While this movement focusses on sewing and quilting, I think that it applies to any creative process. Being intentional and mindful of what we are making with our hands, helps us nurture the creative process which culminates in a finished product that is going to be used and loved and enjoyed and shared.

When I began this blog oh so many years ago, this space was a way for me to have placeholders for all the various projects I was working on. I added a smattering of life and everyday stuff, but this blog was mainly a creative journal.

I have to admit that most of my crafty endeavors have been swayed by the pursuit of “ooh shiny”. It was only a couple years ago that I stepped back from acquiring more stash than I can knit or sew within this lifetime. (Yes, I still continue to purchase yarn and fabric – I don’t think I can ever put a complete full stop to that!) However, my purchases have become more intentional and focussed. More and more, I am beginning to think about the end product and if it will actually get used before I commit to bringing that stash home with me.

In the spring, I donated a bunch of handknit items to a local women’s shelter. I am ashamed to admit that most of these I wore only the one time when I took pictures to write up a blog post! I do however know that each item was created from the heart and I hope that the person who uses it will find some comfort from that in the midst of their often intolerable circumstances.

It was perfect timing when I read about Amy’s campaign while I was putting this donation bag together. That was when I decided that from here on in, I will be more mindful in making things that I know will be used and loved. Projects that will bring joy to me and my family, benefit my community and those in need.

I’m taking the “For Keeps Pledge”!

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Do you have handmade items in your closet that you’ve never used?

**Fabrics are “Up Parasol” by Heather Bailey and “Violette” by Amy Butler and there is print in there from Amy Butler’s older lines. I think all of these play nicely together!**